“GOA is pleased to see that gun stores will be reopened in Massachusetts. In times of emergencies, it is vital for people to be able to acquire the tools necessary to protect themselves and their families,” said Erich Pratt, Senior Vice President of GOA.

In Maryland, some gun ranges had been ordered closed by the police based on a misinterpretation of the state’s shut down order. GOA and its foundation (Gun Owners Foundation) sent a letter to Maryland Gov. Larry Hogan, urging him to reopen gun ranges. The letter stated, in part, “We urge you to bring Maryland into line with the vast majority of other states that have allowed shooting ranges to continue operation, and into line with the DHS CISA Memorandum, and federal and state constitutional requirements.” Just days after GOA’s letter, Gov. Hogan’s latest executive order has explicitly named shooting ranges as businesses that can open to the public .

“Just as with acquiring firearms, having a place to safely practice and train with firearms is critically important, even during a pandemic. GOA and GOF are happy to see gun ranges opening up in the Old Line State,” Pratt concluded.

Erich Pratt, or another GOA spokesperson, is available for interviews. Gun Owners of America, and its sister organization Gun Owners Foundation, are nonprofits dedicated to protecting the right to keep and bear arms without compromise. For more information, visit GOA’s Press Center.